Definition of VDRL test

VDRL test: A blood test for syphilis (VDRL stands for
Venereal Disease Research Laboratory) that detects an antibody that
is present in the bloodstream when a patient has syphilis.

A
negative (nonreactive) VDRL is compatible with a person not having
syphilis, but in the early stages of the disease, the VDRL often
gives false negative results. Conversely, a false positive VDRL can
be encountered in infectious mononucleosis, lupus, antiphospholipid
antibody syndrome, hepatitis A, leprosy, malaria and, occasionally,
pregnancy.